Preparation and characterization of Lokanatha Rasa – An Ayurveda mercurial preparation

Abstract

Rasa Shastra stands as one of the main branches within Ayurveda pharmaceutics, with Mercury serving as its primary constituent. Lokanatha rasa (LKN) emerges as a promising mercurial preparation, as documented in various Ayurveda Rasa Shastra texts, particularly for addressing liver and spleen disorders. Our study aimed to synthesize LKN following standardized protocols outlined in the classical Rasa Shastra text Rasendra sara sangraha. Subsequently, we conducted comprehensive physicochemical characterization utilizing advanced instrumental techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR). Notably, our XRD analysis revealed CaCO3 exhibiting the highest peak in a hexagonal structure within the formulation. Moreover, LKN comprised constituents such as metacinnabar, hematite (Fe2O3), and free sulfur. FTIR spectroscopy depicted broad peaks at 711 cm-1 and 1792 cm-1, where the latter indicated the presence of C=O stretching. XRD analysis showed spherical particles with particle sizes spanning from 1 nm to 200 nm. Additionally, these observations highlighted crystallite agglomeration within the LKN formulation. Our findings underscore the pivotal role of modern analytical techniques in assessing the quality aspects of LKN. We believe that these research insights are imperative for the further advancement and standardization of LKN within Ayurvedic practice.